Under Rohit Sharma's leadership, Team India has showcased exceptional skill in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With two consecutive wins, India has advanced to the semifinals. In the opening match, India triumphed over Bangladesh with a six-wicket victory, followed by another six-wicket win against rival Pakistan. However, India's semifinal opponent remains uncertain.
Who Will India Face in the Semifinals?
India's last group match is scheduled against New Zealand on March 2 (Sunday) in Dubai. The match's outcome will clarify the overall scene. Irrespective of the result, India will play the first semifinal in Dubai on March 4. The top team from Group A will face the second-placed team from Group B in the semifinals, while the second team from Group A will take on the leader from Group B.
Besides India, New Zealand has secured a semifinal spot from Group A. Meanwhile, Australia's team made it to the semifinals from Group B. The spot from Group B is down to either South Africa or Afghanistan. However, Afghanistan's chances to make the semifinals are quite slim.
If the South African team defeats England in their last group match on Saturday, they will top Group B. If India loses against New Zealand or if the match results in a draw, the Dubai semifinal will feature Australia vs. India. If Australia tops Group B and India loses to New Zealand, the Dubai semifinal will still be Australia vs. India.
If India wins against New Zealand in their final group match and South Africa triumphs over England, the semifinal clash will be between India and Australia. Should India top Group A, they might face Afghanistan in the semifinals, provided South Africa suffers a significant defeat against England.
Group A comprises India, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. New Zealand leads the group with two wins from two matches and a net run rate of 0.863. Currently, India holds second place with four points and a net run rate of 0.647. India can only top the group by defeating New Zealand. Bangladesh is third, while Pakistan is at the bottom.
Source: aajtak
Group B features Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia. South Africa leads with three points from two matches and an impressive net run rate of 2.140. Australia's team, also with three points from two matches, has a lower net run rate (0.475) than South Africa's. Afghanistan is third with two points from two matches and a net rate of -0.990. England is yet to secure any points, sitting in last place.
Source: aajtak
Remaining Champions Trophy Fixtures:
February 28 - Afghanistan vs. Australia, Lahore March 1 - South Africa vs. England, Karachi March 2 - New Zealand vs. India, Dubai March 4 - Semifinal-1, India vs. TBD, Dubai March 5 - Semifinal-2, Lahore March 9 - Final, Lahore (Held in Dubai if India qualifies) March 10 - Reserve Day
